This International Women’s Day (Saturday March 8) will see the launch of a helpline to provide female seafarers with access to a trusted, female-led support system whenever they need it.
Female cadets and seafarers can choose to speak in confidence to a female on the 24/7 helpline offered by global maritime welfare charity Sailors’ Society. The service, which will provide emotional support, crisis assistance, and peer-to-peer connections for female seafarers and cadets worldwide, is being funded by international marine insurance provider, Skuld
Being a seafarer is challenging. But there are unique challenges to being a female seafarer and we know some women may feel more comfortable speaking to another woman. This helpline, along with our female Peer-to-Peer Support Groups, allows them to lean on other women who understand what they are going through.
… said Sailors’ Society’s CEO, Sara Baade.
Ståle Hansen, President and CEO of Skuld, stated that supporting the Sailor’s Society’s valuable initiative aligned perfectly with their commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive maritime industry.
Seafaring can be an emotionally and mentally demanding profession, and female seafarers, who are often outnumbered and far from home, may have limited access to the resources and assistance they need. A dedicated helpline can offer a safe, confidential space for them to seek advice, report issues, and receive emotional or legal support.
Our industry must work together to increase gender equality and attract a diverse workforce to ensure it stays competitive in an uncertain world where female seafarers remain a significant minority. Together, we can create a safer environment for all women at sea
… Hansen highlighted.
